The Protection Forum will be organised by the International Network on Explosive Weapons in cooperation with FUNPADEM and Seguridad Humana en América Latina y el Caribe (SEHLAC). The Forum will take place at the Sheraton Hotel, San José, on Tuesday 18 November, the day prior to the San Jose EWIPA Conference, 19-20 November. 

The Protection Forum is aimed at providing a space to bring attention to the needs of people and communities affected by explosive weapons, and in a format that is conversational, interactive and with a focus on bringing to the fore the voices of people with lived experiences, and aimed at fostering dialogue on strengthening the protection of civilians. 

The Forum is organised by civil society, but seeks to engage all delegates and stakeholders, including states, armed/defence forces, and international organisations. 

Delegates are encouraged to arrive at 11:30 AM for registration, in advance of the Opening Session, which will commence at 12:00 PM. The Forum features an excellent roster of speakers representing a variety of regions, contexts, and organisations, and comprises three primary sessions: ‘Civilian Harm and Current Contexts’, ‘Turning Political Commitment into Action’, and ‘Building Norms in a Time of Crisis’.

Food and beverages will be available throughout the Forum, including a drinks reception and a traditional evening buffet. The drinks reception will be preceded by a film screening of the documentary For Sama, and a Q&A with the Emmy award-winning Directors.  

Registration for the Protection Forum on Strengthening the Protection of Civilians from Explosive Weapons will close on 19 October.